Math/Physics vs Physics/Engineering double major?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around the comparison of double majoring in Math and Physics versus Physics and Mechanical Engineering, particularly in the context of pursuing a career in physics and graduate school. Participants explore the implications of each choice on academic workload, career prospects, and the relevance of each major to graduate studies in physics.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant inquires about the popularity of the double majors and expresses a preference for pursuing a career in physics in grad school.
  • Another participant suggests that the Math/Physics double major is more favorable due to less overlap in courses and the difficulty of the Physics/Engineering path.
  • A different participant questions the necessity of a double major for graduate school applications, arguing that a physics major is sufficient and that additional math can be taken as electives or through a minor.
  • Some participants advocate for the Physics/Math combination for those aiming for a physics PhD, while suggesting Engineering/Math or Engineering/Physics for other career paths.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing opinions on the value and practicality of each double major, with no consensus reached on which path is definitively better for pursuing a career in physics.

Contextual Notes

Some arguments depend on individual career goals and the specific requirements of graduate programs, which may vary. The discussion reflects a range of perspectives on the relevance of double majoring versus focusing on a single major with electives.

Ishida52134
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Which double major is generally more popular in college?
I'm considering either math and physics or physics and mechanical engineering.
I'm probably going to pursue a career in physics in grad school.
 
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Maths/physics. I heard physics/engineering is nearly impossible, and more courses overlap in maths/physics.
 
I'm willing to bet you're a freshman or in high school. Why do you want a double major anyway? It won't get you any points when applying to physics grad school. All they care about is if you're a physics major.

If it's because you really like math, don't worry, you'll learn plenty math as a physics major. You don't have to commit to picking up a whole major and lengthen your degree just because of that interest, especially if it's moot in the endgame. Consider taking a some math as electives or picking up a minor.

Engineering is a little different than physics. If you're sure you want to be in the middle, consider schools that have an engineering physics or applied physics degree. Just keep in mind you're strongest for a PhD in physics with a physics BS. I know two people that did the physics+math and really, it made them know more math, but it didn't make them better physicists than the vanilla majors.
 
For a physics PhD and career as a physicist - definitely go with Physics/Math.

For all other careers and post grad choices, I would go with Engineering/Math or maybe Engineering/Physics.
 

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